Turkish perceptions of Turkey-US relations during Obama’s presidency: Dialectics of expectations/partnership and disappointments/estrangement

Abstract

This chapter explores how Turkish perceptions of the US and bilateral relations during the two terms of the Obama administration were molded in relation to certain issues of contention. The primary focus is on the Turkish government’s policymaking, conceptions of and approach to its relations with the US. In addition, the Turkish public’s reactions and understandings of the US during the Obama administration are explored. The chapter contends that throughout Obama’s two terms there has been a shift in Turkish perceptions of Turkey-US relations. High hopes and expectations of both the political elites and the general public gave way to disillusionment and a major split in matters of utmost importance to Turkey. Overall, the Obama period did not produce a dramatic change in general Turkish perceptions of the US, and Turkish perceptions of bilateral relations continue to be defined through a security lens, as has been all along. © The Author(s) 2018.